Polycycles Patents (Class 280/282)
  • Patent number: 8543291
    Abstract: A wheel suspension system for a three-wheeled motorcycle or “trike” includes parallel wheels mounted on vertically pivoting suspension arms governed by hydraulic pistons. The pistons have upper liquid reservoirs that are interconnected through a valve system, which interconnects the upper reservoirs when the trike is in motion, allowing opposing vertical wheel movements when banking through turns, and prevents liquid exchange when the trike is stopped, thereby holding the motorcycle upright, Embodiments include a manual and/or automatic valve control. A threshold switching speed for an automatic controller can be factory set and/or user adjustable. The pistons can include directly interconnected lower fluid reservoirs. A shock-absorbing reservoir can allow transient vertical movement of both wheels to absorb shocks. A cover system can emulate the appearance of saddle bags and can appear to be covering only a single wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Inventor: Steven P Young
  • Patent number: 8534689
    Abstract: A child vehicle includes a front frame having a handlebar and at least one front wheel, and a rear frame movably coupled thereto and having at least one rear wheel. At least one graphical interface is coupled to the vehicle and includes a placard having a frame secured to the vehicle and a working surface disposed generally within the frame. The working surface is configured to be marked thereon by the child using a marking utensil so as to create an artistic expression for customizing the vehicle. A tool-less coupling between the front and rear frames and an associated method of a tool-less assembly of a child vehicle are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: Huffy Corporation
    Inventor: Donald K. Jessie, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8517406
    Abstract: A movable vehicle includes a first frame member, a second frame member, and a biasing mechanism. The first frame member includes a front wheel and a handlebar configured to turn the front wheel in various directions. The second frame member has at least one rear wheel and is coupled to the first frame member such that the first frame member can rotate with respect to the second frame member. The biasing mechanism is operatively coupled to the first and second frame members and biases the front wheel in a preferred direction, such as a straight direction. The biasing mechanism may include a resilient gasket and a cavity having at least partially corresponding polygonal cross sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Huffy Corporation
    Inventors: Robert L. Diekman, Donald K. Jessie, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8517407
    Abstract: A three-wheel pedal-style wheelchair which includes a roller at a side, close to the ground, of the wheelchair, wherein the roller prevents the wheelchair from turning over, a steering wheel arranged at a side of the wheelchair, and two front wheels respectively arranged at two opposite sides of the wheelchair, wherein the two front wheels comprises a driving wheel led to rotate forward or backward by a user stepping and a loose wheel, wherein when the wheelchair turns to a direction in a small radius, the steering wheel is considerably rotated to a direction and the driving wheel is rotated forward, wherein when the wheelchair turns to another direction, the steering wheel is considerably rotated to a direction and the driving wheel is rotated backward. Accordingly, the wheelchair is easily controlled to have a small turn, like whirling in one spot, to move and to turn safely.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignees: TESS Co., Ltd
    Inventors: Yasunobu Handa, Kenji Suzuki
  • Patent number: 8500134
    Abstract: A toy vehicle is adaptable for use as a ride-on vehicle or a scooter, and includes a support frame provided with a user supporting mechanism and having a first portion and a second distal portion, and a grip handlebar for the user mechanically connected to the support frame. The support frame is mechanically connectible/disconnectible to/from the grip handlebar in order to assume first and second use configurations such that the grip handlebar is connected to the first and second portions, respectively, and such that the user support mechanism assumes different positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Inventor: Mishael Tzoreff
  • Publication number: 20130193668
    Abstract: A tandem tricycle having a front frame portion and a detachable rear frame portion, which is configured to accommodate two riders. A drivetrain allows the riders to independently power the tricycle. A full suspension assembly provides a smoother ride.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2013
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Inventors: Ronald Decker, Tim Decker
  • Patent number: 8480110
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for LC/IMS/MS analysis involve obtaining noisy raw data from a sample, convolving the data with an artifact-reducing filter, and locating, in retention-time, ion mobility, and mass-to-charge-ratio dimensions, one or more ion peaks of the convolved data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: Waters Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Marc V. Gorenstein, Guo-Zhong Li
  • Patent number: 8469369
    Abstract: A combined seat with compression device for interactively actuating a sound effects unit incorporated into a ride on toy vehicle as a user bounces up and down on the combined seat with compression device. The toy includes a frame for a ride-on toy vehicle, a sound effects unit having a housing secured to the frame, a seat secured to the frame and movable between first and second positions, an actuating mechanism attached at the seat for engagement with the sound effects unit, and a deformable compression device positioned at the seat capable of depressing as the seat is moved from the first the position to the second position to interactively activate the sound effects unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Hasbro, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas C. McCarthy, Craig McElhaney, Steven Lee Unruh
  • Patent number: 8459679
    Abstract: A pivot mechanism includes a base member configured to be coupled to a first element and a generally cylindrical rotating member configured to be coupled to a second element. An elongate pin extends through the base member and rotating member and defines a pivot axis. The rotating member is capable of rotating relative to the base member about the pivot axis. The elongate pin is movable in a direction generally parallel to the pivot axis between a secured position and a release position. In the secured position, the rotating member is prevented from rotating relative to the base member, and in the release position, the rotating member is permitted to rotate relative to the base member. The pivot mechanism may be incorporated into a scooter or a tricycle to provide different configurations thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignee: Huffy Corporation
    Inventor: Donald K. Jessie, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8439382
    Abstract: A bicycle frame is provided comprising: two substantially concentric rings connected along a front portion and flared out at a rear portion to enable a rear bicycle wheel to fit there between, the two substantially concentric rings enabled to absorb strain energy received from at least one of the rear wheel and weight from a rider; a seat post for receiving a bicycle seat, the seat post extending from a top portion of the two substantially concentric rings; a rear wheel bracket extending from a bottom rear portion of each of the two substantially concentric rings for supporting the rear wheel between the two substantially concentric rings; a bottom bracket located proximal a bottom front portion of the two substantially concentric rings, the bottom bracket for connecting at least a crank to the bicycle frame; a headtube for receiving a front fork; and, at least one support for the headtube to connect the headtube to the two substantially concentric rings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Inventor: Lucio Tortola
  • Patent number: 8388004
    Abstract: A personal transportation device comprises a riding platform supported by one or more wheels, a steering mechanism at least partially embedded in the riding platform and a drive wheel assembly. A first wheel may be steerable while a second wheel is a slave wheel. The steering mechanism may be foot-operated. The drive wheel may be hand-propelled and non-steerable. The drive wheel is operatively connected to a drive sprocket and chain and is coupled to the riding platform by a platform frame. The personal transportation device may comprise one or more track arm assemblies coupled to the drive wheel assembly such that movement of the track arm assemblies operates the drive wheel assembly and rotates a drive wheel to propel the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Inventor: Edward Walter
  • Patent number: 8382135
    Abstract: An unmotorized sand-rideable bicycle utilizes oversized balloon tires that have an enlarged footprint to permit the bicycle to ride up over even loose sand to provide ease of pedaling as well as enhanced steering and stability over that associated with standard bicycles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Inventors: William J Raike, III, Gene Langmesser
  • Patent number: 8342555
    Abstract: One embodiment of a tricycle (20) having a spine frame (22), supported by a rear wheel (34) and a pair of steerable front wheels (36), and supporting a recumbent seat (42) pivotably attached at its rear. A pedal boom (44) extends forwardly of the spine (26) and supports a pedal crank assembly (46). The front wheels each support a lateral arm (28) with the front wheel pivotably attached at the distal end and an angular projection (80) attached at the proximal end. A pivot (78) connects each angular projection to the spine, allowing the lateral arms and attached front wheels to fold to a stowed position alongside the spine. Another pivot (84) connects the boom to the spine, allowing the boom fold back to a stowed position against the spine. In the travel position, a clamp arrests the angular projections, and can arrest the boom and seat. The tricycle is collapsible to several levels of compactness. Other embodiments are described and shown.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Inventors: Alan Roy Ball, Eric John Ball
  • Patent number: 8328213
    Abstract: A vehicle powered by an operator's arms and/or legs utilizes a pivot column for propulsion. An upper propulsion member (handlebar) is provided on the upper end of the pivot column. A lower propulsion member (foot bar) is provided on the lower end of the pivot column. A drive propulsion system is provided between the pivot column bottom and a rotational drive gear set. The drive propulsion system engaged with said at least one rotational drive gear, the propulsion system engages with and provides propulsion to an upper portion of the rotational drive gear during a counterclockwise motion of the pivot column and engages with and provides propulsion to a lower portion of the rotational drive gear during a clockwise motion of the pivot column. The rotational drive gear spins freely when subjected to the reverse motion. Incorporating two gears with opposing propulsion drives provides forward motion throughout the entire reciprocating stroke of the pivot column.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Inventor: Robert Crawford
  • Patent number: 8313117
    Abstract: A child's riding vehicle such as a tricycle has a secondary steering column through which the parent walking behind the tricycle may steer the tricycle. The secondary steering column is coupled to the first steering column by a pair of rods that are attached at their respective ends to a first flange around the primary steering column and a second flange around the secondary steering column. The steering rods also act as steering limiters by contacting the wheel fork tube at a predetermined maximum steering angle and resisting further rotation of the flange. The mechanism lies entirely within the hollow frame of the tricycle for safety. The child's steering handle can be disengaged from the fork tube to allow the parent to completely control the steering without interference from the child.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2012
    Assignee: MGA Entertainment, Inc.
    Inventors: Samir Khare, Yuval Caspi
  • Publication number: 20120261896
    Abstract: A bicycle including a front wheel, a rear wheel, and a frame supported on the front and rear wheels, the frame having a frame member. The bicycle further includes a first fairing member protruding outward from the frame member and having a side surface defining an aerodynamic trailing edge and a second fairing member detachably mounted on the first fairing member such that the side surface is exposed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2011
    Publication date: October 18, 2012
    Applicant: SPECIALIZED BICYCLE COMPONENTS, INC.
    Inventors: Jean-Luc Callahan, Christopher P. D'Aluisio, Mark Cote
  • Patent number: 8276987
    Abstract: A children's tricycle comprises a frame, a set of handlebars, a fork, three wheels and a seat adaptable for users of different sizes without modification. The frame comprises a top tube, a head tube and a rear triangle that is substantially perpendicular to the top tube. In some embodiments, the seat extends from the head tube to a point on the frame. In some embodiments, the seat extends from a pivot point of the tricycle along the top tube to the rear triangle. Accordingly, to utilize the tricycle, different sized users are able to move forward or backward on the seat to comfortably engage the pedals and handlebars of the tricycle. In some embodiments, the frame of the children's tricycle comprises one or more of steel, aluminum and metal composite.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: Excelligence Learning Corporation
    Inventors: Jesper Bruhn Johansen, Lars Mathiesen
  • Patent number: 8226104
    Abstract: An energy efficient tricycle has a frame, fork and handlebars connected to hold a front wheel and two rear wheels. A power and transmission assembly means is mounted on the frame to provide power to both rear wheels. A pair of pedals are independently operable and used to provide the torque needed to propel the tricycle. A motorized embodiment is also provided to provide additional power when needed or to completely motorize the tricycle. The pedals are mounted so that they travel in a vertical path. The handlebars, front wheel and both rear wheels are foldable to allow the tricycle to fit within a vehicle. The tricycle has a very low center of gravity. A seat is provided in one embodiment to allow a user to sit and operate using a motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Inventors: Konstantin Kulikov, Sergey Cheprasov
  • Patent number: 8210555
    Abstract: The vehicle has a single steered front wheel (1) mounted on a main frame (5) and two rear wheels (2, 3) mounted on a left (6) and right (7) frames. The left and right frames are connected to the main frame pivotally, which permits the vehicle to be folded into a compact position. The folded vehicle can stand up-right and can be moved to a storage place on two rear (2, 3) and two caster (145) wheels. For carrying inside a car the cycle also can be disassembled to four parts. The seat (9) has a two-point spring suspension with the axis higher than the center of gravity of the seated driver. It allows the seat with the driver to stay in a vertical position while driving on a lateral slope or to lean right and left as the vehicle is making a turn. The vehicle has a leg-operated back pedaling brake mechanism (15) and a car-style steering mechanism with a high-ratio cable reducer (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Inventors: Alexandre Belenkov, Eugene Belenkov
  • Patent number: 8186698
    Abstract: A tricycle includes a frame and a front wheel. The tricycle includes a first rear wheel coupled to the frame. The tricycle includes a second rear wheel coupled to the frame. The tricycle includes a front suspension system and a rear suspension system functionally coupled to the frame. The tricycle includes a drive system coupled to the frame and a wheel hub fixedly coupled to the first drive shaft. The drive system includes a transmission system coupling a first drive train to a second drive train. The tricycle includes a locking device configured to lock the relative position of the wheel hub and the rear axle, wherein the locking device is selectably adjustably between a first mode and a second mode. The first mode includes the wheel hub and the rear axle locked together, and the second mode includes the wheel hub and the rear axle shaft independently rotatable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Inventor: Mark E. Gunderson
  • Patent number: 8162339
    Abstract: Various embodiments of a multi-person tricycle are disclosed. In at least one embodiment, the multi-person tricycle includes two front drive wheel assemblies, each having an independent drive train assembly, and includes a rear wheel assembly operably connected to a steering mechanism which may be simultaneously or independently operated by one or more riders. In at least one embodiment, the multi-person tricycle may be configured or designed to enable two front riders to sit side-by-side, and further may be configured or designed to enable each rider to independently exert and/or vary his or her own pedaling force and/or pedaling cadence without substantially affecting steering of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Inventor: Benjamin James
  • Publication number: 20120056400
    Abstract: A tricycle conversion assembly for a motorcycle comprising two bilaterally symmetrical stabilizers independently mounted to and suspended from a motorcycle frame by adjustable means of attachment. The stabilizers dispose auxiliary wheels essentially even with and parallel to the motorcycle rear wheel wherein the adjustable means of attachment suspend the stabilizers from the motorcycle without moving parts and provide for modifying the alignment of the stabilizers with the motorcycle and for modifying the reactivity of the stabilizers with variations in the ground surface. The assembly provides the opportunity to replace a stabilizer with a side car, and for attachment of an optional towing crossbar at the rear of the assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2010
    Publication date: March 8, 2012
    Inventors: John St Clair, Stephen Hussey
  • Publication number: 20120043737
    Abstract: A riding toy provides a spin-out feature. The riding toy includes a frame, a steerable front wheel mounted to the frame and a rear wheel mounted to the frame. A rear carriage is pivotally attached to the frame so as to pivot about a generally horizontal axis. A caster is mounted to the rear carriage so as to pivot about a generally vertical axis. A lever is pivotally attached to the frame. A link has a leading end pivotally connected to the lever and a trailing end pivotally connected to the rear carriage. As a result, the riding toy may be changed from a traditional configuration, where the rear wheel of the riding toy contacts a riding surface upon which the riding toy is being ridden, to a spin-out configuration, where the caster lifts the rear wheel of the riding toy off of the riding surface, by pulling the lever.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2011
    Publication date: February 23, 2012
    Inventor: Jeffrey Bricker
  • Patent number: 8113528
    Abstract: A racing wheelchair is disclosed. The racing wheelchair may have a pair of rear wheels and a steerable single front wheel. The rear wheels may be independently driven by a lever, through a derailer and a chain, such that pushing one of the two levers will move one of the wheels but not the other. The front wheel is steerable by twist grips located at the removed end of the levers. Brake assemblies and shifter assemblies of the derailers are located adjacent the twist grip, and may be rigidly mounted to the push lever or mounted to the twist grip to rotate therewith.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Inventor: William Taylor
  • Patent number: 8104561
    Abstract: A motorized tricycle comprising a frame including first, second, and third coupling members, two rear wheels, and a rear wheels mounting structure comprising side pieces on either side; cross pieces interconnecting the side pieces; two forward cylindrical first joints; two seats each projecting upward from the topmost side piece and comprising a top second joint and a bottom first threaded hole; two second threaded holes each disposed on a section between the first and second joints of the same side; two inverted L-shaped reinforcement plates comprising a hollow boss projecting inward from a bending point, and first and second through holes at both ends respectively; two sleeves each put on the first joint; two cylinders each disposed in the second joint; and screws for securing the reinforcement plate, the rear wheels mounting structure, and the frame together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Shine Far Metal Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Cho Jih-Kuei
  • Patent number: 8070633
    Abstract: An eccentric bottom bracket assembly having a body member, at least two wing members, a wedge driver with two wedge members, and at least one spring member altogether forming a tubular, cylindrical assembly to fit within the inner shell of the bottom bracket area of the bicycle frame for adjusting the chain length or tension. The assembly is preferably used for the front and rear bottom brackets of a tandem bicycle for adjusting the chain that is connected to the front and rear driving sprockets. The assembly is also alternatively used in single-rider bicycles and other bicycles with the need for adjusting chain tension. The assembly allows for the wing members and the body member to circumferentially and outwardly expand or inwardly retract by co-acting with the rotation of the wedge driver which laterally displaces the wedge members in a parallel direction relative to the longitudinal axis of the body member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Assignee: Bikebiz, III, Inc.
    Inventor: Dennis L. Bushnell
  • Patent number: 8066089
    Abstract: A cycling vehicle is provided in which a first rear wheel is powered exclusively by a bicycle pedal, and a second rear wheel is powered exclusively by an electric motor. The cycling vehicle includes bicycle suspension comprising a seat tube, a paired rear triangle with a connecting member that connects the chain stay and the seat stay, a shock absorber in connection with the seat tube and the connecting member, and a pivot arm in connection with the seat tube and the connecting member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Inventor: Deema Murad
  • Patent number: 8016311
    Abstract: A vehicle with front and rear steering is disclosed. The vehicle can be a cycle. The cycle includes a front wheel steered by a front hand-steering mechanism, and two back wheels steered by a back hand-steering mechanism. The back wheels are dual inclined casters with full rotational movement. A drive train forward of the front wheel drives the front wheel, while a rider is inclined in a seat in a recumbent orientation. The front and rear steering provides unlimited maneuverability and turning capabilities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Inventors: Tyler Hadzicki, Joseph Hadzicki
  • Publication number: 20110193315
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a tricycle having one front wheel and two rear wheels, the tricycle including: a seat frame mounted on a support frame to which the rear wheels are coupled, and having a concave seat formed at the front center thereof; side plates and a rear plate fixed at the bottom ends thereof to the both sides and the rear side of the seat frame; a plurality of space bars disposed spaced apart from each other between the side plates formed on the both sides of the seat frame; and a canopy mounted supportedly onto the plurality of space bars disposed between the side plates.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2011
    Publication date: August 11, 2011
    Inventor: Laura Hija J. Kim
  • Patent number: 7992889
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a vehicle that is converted from a stroller for carrying a passenger and cycle operated by a rider to a combined unit. More specifically, the invention relates to a stroller and a bicycle combined, physically and operationally, such that the operator of the cycle portion of the stroller-cycle can control operation of the stroller portion while the stroller-cycle is in motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2011
    Assignee: Soma Cycle, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Ehrenreich, Joel Hoag, Brian Rhee
  • Patent number: 7976046
    Abstract: Two versions of recumbent human powered three wheeled vehicles are disclosed. Both are of the tadpole type with two front wheels and one rear drive wheel. Both versions lean into turns causing weight transfer toward the inside of turns to prevent rollover during turns at speed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2011
    Inventor: Lawrence Rathsack
  • Patent number: 7938423
    Abstract: An exercise cycle and a method of using the exercise cycle, in which motion from the user's twisting of the torso and alternate pushing on hand grips are transmitted to the driving shaft for movement of the cycle. The exercise cycle comprises a frame, a front wheel, a first rear wheel, a second rear wheel, a seat, operator handles, hand grips, foot force plates, and a driving device. The driving device consists of a driving shaft, a force plate, pivotal arms, an elongate member, and a disk. The input of the user by torso twisting movement or pushing on handgrips will cause the cycle to move forward or backward.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2011
    Inventor: Leroy Schwartz
  • Patent number: 7926828
    Abstract: A tricycle adapted for use by children with autistic spectral disorder. A tricycle with toe clips, hand grips, seat belt, and adjustable handlebars and seat adapted for use by a child with autistic spectrum disorder. A tricycle with other distracting items to help lure use by a child with autistic spectrum disorder. A kit for the adaptation of a tricycle for use by children, and more specifically for use by children with autism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2011
    Inventor: Pamela J. Merchant
  • Publication number: 20110074131
    Abstract: A motorized tricycle comprising a frame including first, second, and third coupling members, two rear wheels, and a rear wheels mounting structure comprising side pieces on either side; cross pieces interconnecting the side pieces; two forward cylindrical first joints; two seats each projecting upward from the topmost side piece and comprising a top second joint and a bottom first threaded hole; two second threaded holes each disposed on a section between the first and second joints of the same side; two inverted L-shaped reinforcement plates comprising a hollow boss projecting inward from a bending point, and first and second through holes at both ends respectively; two sleeves each put on the first joint; two cylinders each disposed in the second joint; and screws for securing the reinforcement plate, the rear wheels mounting structure, and the frame together.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2009
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Inventor: Jih-Kuei Cho
  • Patent number: 7914030
    Abstract: A braking and steering assembly in a vehicle having a pushing section and a riding section. The assembly includes an upper connection post containing braking and steering components for the riding section. The upper connection post has an upper end and a lower threaded end. The assembly further includes a lower connection post containing braking and steering components for the pushing section. The lower connection post has an aperture for threadedly receiving the lower threaded end of the upper connection post. The assembly also includes a rotatable front knob fixed to the upper end of the upper connection post. Rotatably tightening the front knob connects the lower end of the upper connection post with the upper end of the lower connection post. Braking and steering in the riding section controls braking and steering in the pushing section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: Soma Cycle, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Ehrenreich, Joel Hoag, Brian Rhee
  • Patent number: 7891686
    Abstract: A vehicle powered by an operator's arms and/or legs utilizes a pivot column for propulsion. An upper propulsion member (handlebar) is provided on the upper end of the pivot column. A lower propulsion member (foot bar) is provided on the lower end of the pivot column. A drive propulsion system is provided between the pivot column bottom and a rotational drive gear set. The drive propulsion system engaged with said at least one rotational drive gear, the propulsion system engages with and provides propulsion to an upper portion of the rotational drive gear during a counterclockwise motion of the pivot column and engages with and provides propulsion to a lower portion of the rotational drive gear during a clockwise motion of the pivot column. The rotational drive gear spins freely when subjected to the reverse motion. Incorporating two gears with opposing propulsion drives provides forward motion throughout the entire reciprocating stroke of the pivot column.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Inventor: Robert Crawford
  • Patent number: 7887070
    Abstract: The invention relates to a vehicle which can tilt in turns, and comprises a three-wheeled vehicle, which has a rear wheel (6) which is arranged on the longitudinal axis of the three-wheeled vehicle as well as two front wheels (3, 4) which are arranged at a distance from one another and can be steered indirectly by means of a steering element with intermediate connection of a steering column (2), wherein the two front wheels (3, 4) and the frame (1) of the three-wheeled vehicle can be inclined proportionally as a function of the direction of rotation of the steering column (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Assignee: Multi Display Werbeagentur & Werbewerstatt Guenther Wagner
    Inventor: Hubert Kirchner
  • Publication number: 20110031716
    Abstract: The present invention consists of a human-powered, wheeled vehicle, having: a) two front wheels, each of the two front wheels pivotally coupled to a frame by a pivoting mount; b) one or more rear wheels, one or more of the rear wheels coupled to a drive mechanism and operative to provide a driving force for the vehicle; and c) a steering mechanism coupled to the front wheels, the steering mechanism including a handle for steering control by a driver of the vehicle, a first linkage connecting the handle to a first one of the pivoting mounts and a second linkage connecting the first one of the pivoting mounts to a second one of the pivoting mounts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2010
    Publication date: February 10, 2011
    Inventor: Luther TAYLOR
  • Patent number: 7878522
    Abstract: A vehicle includes a vehicle frame, a steering rod, a pair of arm units, and a drive unit. The steering rod is coupled rotatably to the vehicle frame. Each of the arm units is coupled pivotably to the vehicle frame. The drive unit is coupled to the arm units, and is operable so as to drive pivoting movement of the arm units relative to the vehicle frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Assignee: Joy Ride Tech. Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Ming-Chen Liao
  • Publication number: 20110018226
    Abstract: A pivot mechanism includes a base member configured to be coupled to a first element and a generally cylindrical rotating member configured to be coupled to a second element. An elongate pin extends through the base member and rotating member and defines a pivot axis. The rotating member is capable of rotating relative to the base member about the pivot axis. The elongate pin is movable in a direction generally parallel to the pivot axis between a secured position and a release position. In the secured position, the rotating member is prevented from rotating relative to the base member, and in the release position, the rotating member is permitted to rotate relative to the base member. The pivot mechanism may be incorporated into a scooter or a tricycle to provide different configurations thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2010
    Publication date: January 27, 2011
    Applicant: HUFFY CORPORATION
    Inventor: Donald K. Jessie, JR.
  • Publication number: 20110018225
    Abstract: A dual riding and driving tricycle in juxtaposing link comprises a primary bicycle body, an auxiliary cycle body and an articulation mechanism including a resilient tension mechanism. Primary bicycle body comprises a saddle sat by a primary rider, a front wheel controlled by a steering handle, a rear wheel and a pair of pedals to drive. Auxiliary cycle body comprises an auxiliary saddle sat by an auxiliary rider, an auxiliary wheel with a hub shaft located between hubs of front wheel and rear wheel in primary bicycle body and a pair of pedals to drive. Articulation mechanism comprises a left holding base, a right holding base and two parallel linking trough beams being disposed between both holding bases. Resilient tension mechanism comprises plural elastic elements connected on articulation mechanism respectively. Thereby, primary rider and auxiliary rider can independently tread respective pedals to drive synergistically.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2009
    Publication date: January 27, 2011
    Inventors: Hsu-Sheng CHIN, Tsung-Lin Fan Chiang, Chih-Ching Chin
  • Patent number: 7861658
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a human powered rail bike. The rail bike includes a chassis having a predetermined shape. Rail wheels comprising a pair of front wheels and rear wheels, roll along two rails of the track which are arranged side by side. A plurality of seats is mounted to the chassis. A one-way clutch capable of changing direction limits the rotating direction of an axle to one direction, that is, a forward direction or a backward direction. A plurality of crank pedals is rotatably mounted to the chassis, and is connected to the one-way clutch capable of changing direction via a chain. A direction conversion lever functions to convert the rotating direction of the one-way clutch. Further, a pair of brake units is provided to reduce the speed of the rail bike or stop the rail bike.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Inventor: Soo Haeng Lee
  • Publication number: 20100331149
    Abstract: An apparatus adapted for use as a therapeutic tricycle; said apparatus including in part, a specialized lever system permitting optimal rider center of mass positioning; an optional steering lock out system; an embodiment prescribing optimized apparatus dimensions based upon rider weight to enhance apparatus stability; an improved chain management system; an improved wheelie bar system; a shock absorbing system; the combination permitting enhanced apparatus stability and ability to perform a varied array of maneuvers providing exercise, therapeutic, and recreational advantages which particularly benefit disabled children. A method of exercising tendons and/or heel cords using a specialized adaptive tricycle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2010
    Publication date: December 30, 2010
    Inventor: Jaysen John Ivan Turner
  • Patent number: 7845666
    Abstract: A swinging hub is disclosed for adjusting the camber of at least one wheel mounted for rotation about one of a two oppositely extending axles via a camber adjustment mechanism including an actuator coupled to the at least one axle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2010
    Assignee: Purdue Research Foundation
    Inventors: Eric S. Lynch, Anthony P. Beach
  • Publication number: 20100289244
    Abstract: There is disclosed a vehicle, for example, a self-propelled and/or pedal vehicle such as a tricycle, bicycle, scooter, micro-scooter, or collapsible scooter, for example, adapted for use by children or infants. Accordingly, a self-propelled vehicle comprising illuminatable direction indicator means comprising left turn and right turn indictor means, which selectably operate by turning of a steering means or column of the self-propelled vehicle to the left or to the right, respectively, the steering means or column comprising handlebars in one embodiment. The self-propelled vehicle may comprise a tricycle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2009
    Publication date: November 18, 2010
    Applicant: H Grossman Limited
    Inventor: Martin Grossman
  • Patent number: 7819414
    Abstract: An apparatus adapted for use as a therapeutic tricycle; said apparatus including in part, a specialized lever system permitting optimal rider center of mass positioning; an optional steering lock out system; an embodiment prescribing optimized apparatus dimensions based upon rider weight to enhance apparatus stability; an improved chain management system; an improved wheelie bar system; a shock absorbing system; the combination permitting enhanced apparatus stability and ability to perform a varied array of maneuvers providing exercise, therapeutic, and recreational advantages which particularly benefit disabled children. A method of exercising tendons and/or heel cords using a specialized adaptive tricycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2010
    Inventor: Jaysen John Ivan Turner
  • Patent number: 7798510
    Abstract: A vehicle including: a front wheel; two rear wheels; a seat configured to allow a rider to lean forward when the vehicle travels; and a frame that includes a front frame section and a rear frame section, the front frame section extending from the seat to at least an axis of rotation of the front wheel and connecting the seat to the front wheel, the rear frame section extending from the first frame section rearward and connecting the rear wheels to the first frame section, the frame sections being pivotably connected at a pivot point between the main wheel and the seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Inventors: Scott Patrick Comstock, Kurt Joseph Comstock
  • Publication number: 20100230925
    Abstract: A four wheeled, human-powered, striding cycle that uses the stepping and striding motion of the human legs to propel a rider forward. Two separate and dependent foot pedals are moved fore and aft along a concaved arc segment. The motion simulates the natural stepping and striding motion of a running human. A standing human steps on a pedal, then moves it down and aft in a striding motion. As one pedal is moved aft, the other pedal moves forward in a reciprocating fashion. A cable and pulley system connects each pedal with its respective rear wheel. Pedal motion aft applies torque to its respective drive shaft which in turn rotates its respective drive wheel. Pedal motion forward also provides torque to the opposing drive shaft creating additional torque for the opposite wheel. Forward motion begins when force is exerted down and aft on each pedal by the stepping and striding motion of the human leg.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2009
    Publication date: September 16, 2010
    Inventor: Todd Thielbar
  • Publication number: 20100212708
    Abstract: The invention is an Enhanced Patient Mobility Apparatus for use by ambulatory or recovering patients. The Enhanced Mobility Apparatus is fabricated from sturdy tubular material and has a lower U-shaped base frame member mounted on casters with an upwardly extending mid frame member and two vertical supports attached thereto and each also attached at its lower extremity to the lower U-shaped base frame member. The U-shaped base frame member, the mid frame member and the two vertical supports define a walking space for the patient with provision for the possibility of the patient also being able to move about with oxygen tanks, a patient intravenous drip apparatus and other medical devices and apparatus which must be transported by an ambulatory patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2009
    Publication date: August 26, 2010
    Inventors: David B. Turner, Ralph Myers
  • Patent number: 7775538
    Abstract: A pedal car that is designed to serve as foot-propelled transportation for two or more individuals. The pedal car has a protected enclosure that is designed to be powered by leg power of the two front-seat passengers, with these passengers operating a pedaling system. Each of these two front-seat passengers has a two-pedal system to allow each of them to share the responsibility of providing power to the pedal car. The pedal car also has an overhead roof, with each of the two front seats having 90-degree swivel capabilities, a seat lock, and a seat belt for safety while riding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Inventors: James D. Hertz, Cindy Hertz